Velocette MSS

Motorcycle

Type of motorcycle

Velocette MSSManufacturer| Velocette

|

Production| 1935–68
Successor| Venom
Engine| 495cc, OHV air-cooled single
Bore / stroke| 1935-1939 81.0 mm × 96 mm (3.19 in × 3.78 in) 1954 onwards 86 mm x 86 mm
Top speed| 80 mph (130 km/h)[citation needed]
Power| 23 bhp (17 kW) @ 5000rpm[citation needed]
Transmission| Four-speed, chain final drive
Brakes| Drum
Weight| 375 pounds (170 kg) (dry)

Fuel capacity| 2.5 gallons

The Velocette MSS is a motorcycle made by Velocette. It was fast, reliable and economical but could not compete against a new range of British twin-cylinder motorcycles. Production ended in 1968.[1]

## Development

[edit]

It was launched in 1935 as a 500cc to the new m series models, intended as a side car hauler. World War II halted production which did not resume until 1954. The new MSS was a much more modern machine with the same frame as the Velocette MAC and was fitted with sidecar lugs and had optional panniers to appeal to the touring market. Buyers started tuning the MSS for speed, however, and the factory responded by producing the sports Velocette Venom model. In 1955 a scrambles version was also produced.[1]

## Racing history

[edit]

Burt Munro from New Zealand, featured in the film The World's Fastest Indian raced a heavily modified 1936 Velocette MSS. Racing preparation included making special pistons, changing the frame and increasing engine capacity to 650 cc. His top speed record on this motorcycle was 138 mph (222 km/h) with a 1/4 mile time of 12.31 seconds.[2]

## References

[edit]

1. ^ a b Kemp, Andrew; De Cet (2004). Classic British Bikes. Mirco. Bookmart Ltd. ISBN 978-1-86147-136-9.
2. ^ "World's fastest Velocette?". Retrieved 6 December 2008.